Find Certified Contractors in Baltimore

The state of Maryland requires permits or licenses for most home improvement projects, especially if major structural changes are being made or plumbing or electrical work is needed.

Counties

• Baltimore County, MD
• Carroll County, MD

All home improvement contractors working in Central Maryland—including Baltimore County, Carroll County, and Howard County—must hold a valid Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license.

How to Verify a License:

• Online: Visit the MHIC Public Search and enter the contractor's name or license number
• By Phone: Contact MHIC at (410) 230-6309

Before Hiring:

• Confirm the license is active and in good standing
• Request a copy of their insurance certificate
• Check for any complaints or disciplinary actions

Licensed MHIC contractors are required to carry a minimum of $500,000 in general liability insurance (as of June 2024).

General Liability: As of June 2024, home improvement contractors must carry at least $500,000 in general liability—a major increase from the previous $50,000 requirement. Baltimore and surrounding counties may require even higher limits for certain projects.

Workers' Compensation: Maryland mandates workers' comp starting with your first employee. Coverage must be through a licensed provider or approved self-insurance.

The Best Pick Promise: We verify that every Best Pick contractor holds valid general liability insurance and meets all state-mandated workers' compensation requirements. You can also verify a license directly at the Maryland MHIC License Lookup.

Maryland sees all kinds of inclement weather throughout the year, and consistent home maintenance is crucial to preventing problems like water damage, foundation issues, clogged gutters, and more.

On average, Maryland sees over 40 inches of rain per year. The hottest month of the year is usually July, with temperatures in the high 80s. January temperatures average around 25 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best Pick Reports conducts independent consumer satisfaction research in Central Maryland annually. We survey thousands of homeowners who have recently hired home service companies, analyzing their experiences to identify contractors who consistently deliver quality work.

To earn Best Pick certification in Central Maryland, companies must:

• Maintain a 4.0+ Google rating or 80%+ customer recommendation rate
• Hold all required state and local licenses
• Carry general liability insurance [+ workers' compensation where required]
• Have no unresolved complaints or regulatory violations
• Re-qualify annually through fresh consumer satisfaction surveys

We verify licensing and insurance annually for every certified company. When you hire a Best Pick contractor, you're also protected by our Best Pick Guarantee, which provides up to $2,500 in coverage if a certified company fails to meet their commitments.